Bradley Lowery will lead England out at Wembley before their clash with Lithuania on Sunday.

They may be fierce rivals on the pitch, but Sunderland and Newcastle fans are coming together raise awareness of a rare type of cancer – the very same that is affecting five-year-old battler Bradley Lowery.

Lowery has been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called neuroblastoma, which mostly affects children under five. Sunderland AFC has raised the profile of his battle, leading to other clubs and fans helping him and his family raise money.

A Sunderland fan XI will be up against a Newcastle United fan XI at South Shields’ Mariners Park on Friday night in a bid to raise money and awareness for Bradley’s fight against neuroblastoma. Putting their rivalry to good use, the two teams are set to be the main entertainment before a cavalry, and the sides are competing for the Harry Pearce Charity Shield.

Bradley’s story has also touched the hearts of players such as Jermain Defoe, who has been spending time with the young Black Cats fan, with the England international also donating a pair of signed boots for the raffle that will take place after the game.

The fans taking part have worked tirelessly to raise momentum and attention for the match in order for it to get the attention it deserves by spreading the news through forums and fan pages for both Sunderland and Newcastle fans to see.

The game starts at 8pm at Mariners Park on March 24, with tickets available on the door.